80 FR 43928 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 142 (July 24, 2015)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 142 (July 24, 2015)
| Page Range | 43928-43931 | |
| FR Document | 2015-17956 |
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 142 (Friday, July 24, 2015)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 43928-43931] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2015-17956] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2014-0748; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-013-AD; Amendment 39-18219; AD 2015-15-10] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of wear of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA). This AD requires repetitive inspections of the THSA for damage, and replacement if necessary; and replacement of the THSA after reaching a certain life limit. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct wear on the THSA, which would reduce the remaining life of the THSA, possibly resulting in premature failure and consequent reduced control of the airplane. DATES: This AD becomes effective August 28, 2015. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of August 28, 2015. ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2014-0748 or in person at the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC. For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email [email protected]; Internet http://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221. It is also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA 2014- 0748. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on October 16, 2014 (79 FR 62072). The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0011R1, dated January 17, 2014 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition. The MCAI states: In the frame of the A320 Extended Service Goal (ESG) project and the study on the Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer Actuator (THSA), a sampling programme of in-service units has been performed and several cases of wear at different THSA levels were reported. This condition, if not detected and corrected, would reduce the remaining life of the THSA, possibly resulting in premature failure and consequent reduced control of the aeroplane. Prompted by these findings, Airbus issued Service Bulletin (SB) A320-27-1227 to provide THSA inspection instructions. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires repetitive inspections of the THSA and introduces a life limit for the THSA. This AD also requires a detailed inspection of the magnetic chip detector for metal particles, a spectrometric analysis of the oil drained from the THSA gearbox, a detailed inspection of the ballscrew and nut, and a detailed inspection of the upper and the lower attachments for damage. The corrective action is replacement of the THSA with a serviceable THSA. The compliance time for the THSA replacement ranges from before further flight to within 4 months from drainage of the oil sample. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0748-0002. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We have considered the comments received. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM (79 FR 62072, October 16, 2014) and the FAA's response to each comment. Requests To Extend Compliance Time Airlines for America (A4A), on behalf of American Airlines (AAL), Delta Airlines (DAL), and United Airlines (UAL), requested that we extend the initial inspection compliance time in paragraph (g)(2) of the NPRM (79 FR 62072, October 16, 2014) from 4 months to 12 months after the effective date of the AD. A4A stated that the fleet age of multiple U.S. carriers means that a large number of airplanes will require inspection in a short period of time, likely resulting in schedule disruptions and/or cancellations. We disagree with the commenters' request. We base AD compliance times primarily on our assessment of safety risk. Some safety issues are more time sensitive than others. We consider the overall risk to the fleet, including the severity of the failure and the likelihood of the failure's occurrence in development of the compliance time for the ADs. The FAA and EASA work closely with the respective manufacturers to ensure that all appropriate instructions and parts are available at the appropriate time to meet our collective safety goals, and that those goals are based on safety of the fleet. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Requests To Clarify Wording in Paragraphs (h) and (j) of the NPRM (79 FR 62072, October 16, 2014) A4A, on behalf of UAL and JetBlue, requested that we clarify the wording of [[Page 43929]] the flight time/cycle guidance in paragraphs (h) and (j) of the NPRM (79 FR 62072, October 16, 2014). JetBlue asked whether an operator can continue a THSA in service in perpetuity if the inspection is performed every 4 months, or whether the THSA must be removed at 12 months after the effective date of the AD. We agree that clarification is necessary. If a THSA exceeds 67,500 flight hours on the effective date of the AD, then repetitive inspections are to be accomplished every 4 months until replacement is performed within 12 months after the effective date of the AD. Paragraph (m) of this AD is an exception or an alternative to paragraph (j) of this AD and is intended to match the requirements of the MCAI. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Requests To Extend or Remove Life Limit of the THSA JetBlue objected to the THSA 67,500-flight-hour life limit specified by paragraph (j) of the NPRM (79 FR 62072, October 16, 2014). JetBlue stated that establishing a life limit for a component that previously had no such life limit, with no overhaul or inspection criteria for continued airworthiness, is an enormous burden for operators. JetBlue commented that both Airbus and UTAS/Goodrich are developing either an overhaul procedure to zero-time the units, or a method to permit continued airworthy operation of the units beyond the 67,500-flight-hour life limit. A4A stated that an operator that prefers to bear the overhaul costs to restore an older THSA to service beyond 67,500 flight hours should not be precluded from doing so because repair and/or overhaul would return the unit to a new condition, which should address any safety concerns. We disagree with the commenters' request to change the THSA life limit. JetBlue did not provide substantiation that overhaul or repair methods would provide an acceptable level of safety in lieu of the life limits. The FAA takes into consideration the system safety analysis and quantitative and qualitative risk assessment for establishing a life limit for a component, failure of which may cause a catastrophic failure and consequently affect the safe flight of the airplane. This assessment resulted in establishing the THSA life limit required by paragraph (j) of this AD. Once we issue this AD, a request for approval of an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) to extend the THSA life limit under the provisions of paragraph (o)(1) of this AD may be submitted. Sufficient data must be submitted to substantiate that the THSA has been modified or inspected in a manner that would provide an acceptable level of safety. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Requests To Remove Oil Sampling Inspection A4A, on behalf of AAL and JetBlue, requested that we remove the proposed oil sampling inspection requirement in paragraph (g) of the NPRM (79 FR 62072, October 16, 2014). A4A stated that there is no data on the correlation between sample findings and associated component wear. JetBlue commented that the sampling test results may be skewed high or low depending on either a low oil level in the THSA at the time of testing or any recent introduction of clean oil. We disagree with the commenters' request. The oil sampling inspection includes examination for metal particles in the magnetic chip detector. The spectrometric analysis checks for the presence of aluminum particles. Findings may include unusually large quantities of metal particles larger than 2 millimeters by 1 millimeter, which could indicate wear or damage of the THSA. We and our colleagues in the foreign certification authorities (in this case, EASA) work closely with manufacturers to determine appropriate service information for addressing the identified unsafe condition. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Request To Clarify Reporting Requirement JetBlue requested that we permit the reporting described in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1227, Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013, to be done at the operator's discretion. JetBlue stated that there is no value in the reporting, which does not require quantitative disclosure of the oil sampling result--only pass/fail. JetBlue stated that mandating this reporting requirement adds an undue burden to the operator as there is no information to be gained by having operators report whether or not the THSA was changed. We agree with the commenter's request. This AD and the EASA MCAI do not include a reporting requirement. However, when the service information includes a reporting request, then operators are encouraged to provide the report. Reports provide data that can be valuable for the airframe original equipment manufacturers to develop product improvements and/or enhance safety. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Requests To Revise Cost Estimates A4A, on behalf of AAL, JetBlue, and UAL, requested that we revise the cost analysis to accurately reflect the accomplishment burden. A4A stated that the inspections in paragraph (g) of the NPRM (79 FR 62072, October 16, 2014) would require 7 to 9 work-hours rather than 6 work- hours, while removal, replacement, and checkout typically consume 15 to 20 work-hours, not the NPRM estimate of 7 work-hours. We partially agree with the commenter's request to revise the cost estimate. We recognize that costs may vary from operator to operator. Our cost estimates are based on the manufacturer's service information. The service information for this AD specifies 6 work-hours for the inspection and 11 work-hours for the replacement. Therefore, we have changed the work-hours for the replacement accordingly. Clarification of Requirements In order to clarify the repetitive compliance times, we have added a reference to ``paragraph (h) of this AD'' within paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD. We have also have added a reference to ``paragraph (h) of this AD'' in paragraphs (k) and (l) of this AD to clarify that repetitive inspections are required. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this AD with the changes described previously and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM (79 FR 62072, October 16, 2014) for correcting the unsafe condition; and Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM (79 FR 62072, October 16, 2014). Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1227, Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013. The service information describes procedures for an inspection for damage of the THSA and replacement. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section of this AD. [[Page 43930]] Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 851 airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 6 work-hours per product to comply with the inspection requirements of this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost for the inspection specified in this AD on U.S. operators to be $434,010, or $510 per product. We estimate that it would take about 11 work-hours per product to comply with the actuator replacement requirements of this AD. Required parts would cost about $240,000 per product. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost for the actuator replacement specified in this AD on U.S. operators to be $205,035,685, or $240,935 per product. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in ``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: 1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and 4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2014-0748; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone 800-647- 5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 0 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Sec. 39.13 [Amended] 0 2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): 2015-15-10 Airbus: Amendment 39-18219. Docket No. FAA-2014-0748; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-013-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD becomes effective August 28, 2015. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes, certificated in any category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) of this AD, all manufacturer serial numbers. (1) Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes. (2) Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133 airplanes. (3) Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes. (4) Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27, Flight Controls. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by reports of wear of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA). We are issuing this AD to detect and correct wear on the THSA, which would reduce the remaining life of the THSA, possibly resulting in premature failure and consequent reduced control of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Initial Inspections At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD: Do a detailed inspection of the magnetic chip detector for metal particles, a spectrometric analysis of the oil drained from the THSA gearbox, a detailed inspection of the ballscrew and nut for damage (including, but not limited to, cracks, dents, corrosion, and unsatisfactory surface protection), and a detailed inspection of the upper and the lower attachments for damage (including, but not limited to, cracks, dents, corrosion, and unsatisfactory surface protection), in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1227, Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013. (1) Before the THSA accumulates 48,000 total flight hours or 30,000 total flight cycles, whichever occurs first since first installation on an airplane. (2) Within 4 months after the effective date of this AD. (h) Repetitive Inspections Repeat the inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD thereafter at intervals not to exceed the applicable time specified in paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD. (1) For a THSA that, as of the date of the most recent inspection required by paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD, has accumulated less than 67,500 total flight hours since first installation on an airplane: The repetitive inspection interval is 24 months. (2) For a THSA that, as of the date of the most recent inspection required by paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD, has accumulated 67,500 total flight hours or more since first installation on an airplane: The repetitive inspection interval is 4 months. (i) THSA Corrective Action If, during any inspection required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, any finding as described in the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1227, Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013, is found: At the applicable compliance time (depending on the applicable findings) specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1227, Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013, replace the THSA with a serviceable THSA, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1227, Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013. For the purposes of this AD, a serviceable THSA is a THSA that has accumulated less than 67,500 total flight hours since first installation on an airplane. [[Page 43931]] (j) THSA Replacement Before a THSA accumulates 67,500 total flight hours since first installation on an airplane, or within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later: Replace the THSA with a serviceable THSA, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1227, Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013. Thereafter, before the accumulation of 67,500 total flight hours on any THSA since first installation on an airplane, replace it with a serviceable THSA. (k) Replacement THSA: No Terminating Action Replacement of a THSA on an airplane, as required by paragraph (i) or (j) of this AD, does not constitute terminating action for the repetitive inspections required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD for that airplane. After THSA replacement: At the applicable compliance time specified in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), (h)(1), and (h)(2) of this AD, do the inspections required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. (l) Replacement THSA Equivalency A THSA that has been repaired in shop as specified in United Technologies Corporation Aerospace Systems Component Maintenance Manual 27-44-51 is considered equivalent to having passed an inspection in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1227, Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013. Depending on the flight hours or flight cycles accumulated by the repaired THSA: At the applicable compliance time specified in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), (h)(1), and (h)(2) of this AD, do the inspections required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. (m) Parts Installation Limitation As of the effective date of this AD, installation on an airplane of a THSA that has accumulated 67,500 or more total flight hours is allowed, provided that, prior to installation, the THSA has been modified or inspected using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). (n) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for inspections required by paragraphs (g), (h), and (l) of this AD, if those inspections were performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1227, dated July 1, 2013, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD. (o) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057- 3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. Information may be emailed to: [email protected]. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding district office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the EASA; or Airbus's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (p) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0011R1, dated January 17, 2014, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0748-0002. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in paragraphs (q)(3) and (q)(4) of this AD. (q) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1227, Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013. (ii) Reserved. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email [email protected]; Internet http://www.airbus.com. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 12, 2015. Jeffrey E. Duven, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015-17956 Filed 7-23-15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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Office—EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice www.regulations.gov/ the THSA and introduces a life limit for the
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; #!docketDetail;D=FAA-2014-0748 or in THSA.
telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 person at the Docket Management This AD also requires a detailed
93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@
Facility, U.S. Department of inspection of the magnetic chip detector
airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com.
(5) You may view this service information Transportation, Docket Operations, M– for metal particles, a spectrometric
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room analysis of the oil drained from the
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., THSA gearbox, a detailed inspection of
information on the availability of this Washington, DC. the ballscrew and nut, and a detailed
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. For service information identified in inspection of the upper and the lower
(6) You may view this service information this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness attachments for damage. The corrective
that is incorporated by reference at the Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice action is replacement of the THSA with
National Archives and Records
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; a serviceable THSA. The compliance
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 time for the THSA replacement ranges
202–741–6030, or go to: http:// 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth- from before further flight to within 4
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- eas@airbus.com; Internet http:// months from drainage of the oil sample.
locations.html. www.airbus.com. You may view this You may examine the MCAI in the
Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 10, referenced service information at the AD docket on the Internet at http://
2015. FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, www.regulations.gov/
Michael Kaszycki, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. #!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0748-
For information on the availability of 0002.
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. this material at the FAA, call 425–227– Comments
[FR Doc. 2015–17935 Filed 7–23–15; 8:45 am]
1221. It is also available on the Internet
at http://www.regulations.gov by We gave the public the opportunity to
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
searching for and locating Docket No. participate in developing this AD. We
FAA 2014–0748. have considered the comments received.
The following presents the comments
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
received on the NPRM (79 FR 62072,
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, October 16, 2014) and the FAA’s
Federal Aviation Administration International Branch, ANM–116, response to each comment.
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
14 CFR Part 39 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA Requests To Extend Compliance Time
[Docket No. FAA–2014–0748; Directorate 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405; Airlines for America (A4A), on behalf
Identifier 2014–NM–013–AD; Amendment fax 425–227–1149. of American Airlines (AAL), Delta
39–18219; AD 2015–15–10] SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Airlines (DAL), and United Airlines
RIN 2120–AA64 (UAL), requested that we extend the
Discussion
initial inspection compliance time in
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus We issued a notice of proposed paragraph (g)(2) of the NPRM (79 FR
Airplanes rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 62072, October 16, 2014) from 4 months
part 39 by adding an AD that would to 12 months after the effective date of
AGENCY: Federal Aviation apply to all Airbus Model A318, A319, the AD. A4A stated that the fleet age of
Administration (FAA), Department of A320, and A321 series airplanes. The multiple U.S. carriers means that a large
Transportation (DOT). NPRM published in the Federal number of airplanes will require
ACTION: Final rule. Register on October 16, 2014 (79 FR inspection in a short period of time,
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new 62072). likely resulting in schedule disruptions
airworthiness directive (AD) for all The European Aviation Safety Agency and/or cancellations.
Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and (EASA), which is the Technical Agent We disagree with the commenters’
A321 series airplanes. This AD was for the Member States of the European request. We base AD compliance times
prompted by reports of wear of the Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness primarily on our assessment of safety
trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator Directive 2014–0011R1, dated January risk. Some safety issues are more time
(THSA). This AD requires repetitive 17, 2014 (referred to after this as the sensitive than others. We consider the
inspections of the THSA for damage, Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness overall risk to the fleet, including the
and replacement if necessary; and Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct severity of the failure and the likelihood
replacement of the THSA after reaching an unsafe condition. The MCAI states: of the failure’s occurrence in
a certain life limit. We are issuing this In the frame of the A320 Extended Service
development of the compliance time for
AD to detect and correct wear on the Goal (ESG) project and the study on the the ADs. The FAA and EASA work
THSA, which would reduce the Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer Actuator closely with the respective
remaining life of the THSA, possibly (THSA), a sampling programme of in-service manufacturers to ensure that all
resulting in premature failure and units has been performed and several cases appropriate instructions and parts are
of wear at different THSA levels were available at the appropriate time to meet
consequent reduced control of the reported.
airplane. our collective safety goals, and that
This condition, if not detected and those goals are based on safety of the
DATES: This AD becomes effective corrected, would reduce the remaining life of fleet. We have not changed this AD in
August 28, 2015. the THSA, possibly resulting in premature
rmajette on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
failure and consequent reduced control of the
this regard.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference aeroplane. Requests To Clarify Wording in
Prompted by these findings, Airbus issued Paragraphs (h) and (j) of the NPRM (79
of a certain publication listed in this AD Service Bulletin (SB) A320–27–1227 to
as of August 28, 2015. FR 62072, October 16, 2014)
provide THSA inspection instructions.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD For the reasons described above, this A4A, on behalf of UAL and JetBlue,
docket on the Internet at http:// [EASA] AD requires repetitive inspections of requested that we clarify the wording of
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Costs of Compliance 4. Will not have a significant (e) Reason
We estimate that this AD affects 851 economic impact, positive or negative, This AD was prompted by reports of wear
airplanes of U.S. registry. on a substantial number of small entities of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer
under the criteria of the Regulatory actuator (THSA). We are issuing this AD to
We also estimate that it would take detect and correct wear on the THSA, which
about 6 work-hours per product to Flexibility Act.
would reduce the remaining life of the
comply with the inspection Examining the AD Docket THSA, possibly resulting in premature
requirements of this AD. The average You may examine the AD docket on
failure and consequent reduced control of the
labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based airplane.
the Internet at http://
on these figures, we estimate the cost for www.regulations.gov/ (f) Compliance
the inspection specified in this AD on #!docketDetail;D=FAA-2014-0748; or in Comply with this AD within the
U.S. operators to be $434,010, or $510 person at the Docket Management compliance times specified, unless already
per product. Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., done.
We estimate that it would take about Monday through Friday, except Federal (g) Initial Inspections
11 work-hours per product to comply holidays. The AD docket contains this
with the actuator replacement At the later of the times specified in
AD, the regulatory evaluation, any paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD: Do a
requirements of this AD. Required parts comments received, and other detailed inspection of the magnetic chip
would cost about $240,000 per product. information. The street address for the detector for metal particles, a spectrometric
The average labor rate is $85 per work- Docket Operations office (telephone analysis of the oil drained from the THSA
hour. Based on these figures, we 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES gearbox, a detailed inspection of the
estimate the cost for the actuator section. ballscrew and nut for damage (including, but
replacement specified in this AD on not limited to, cracks, dents, corrosion, and
U.S. operators to be $205,035,685, or List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 unsatisfactory surface protection), and a
$240,935 per product. detailed inspection of the upper and the
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation lower attachments for damage (including, but
Authority for This Rulemaking safety, Incorporation by reference, not limited to, cracks, dents, corrosion, and
Safety. unsatisfactory surface protection), in
Title 49 of the United States Code accordance with the Accomplishment
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue Adoption of the Amendment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Accordingly, under the authority 27–1227, Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013.
section 106, describes the authority of delegated to me by the Administrator, (1) Before the THSA accumulates 48,000
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as total flight hours or 30,000 total flight cycles,
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more whichever occurs first since first installation
follows:
on an airplane.
detail the scope of the Agency’s
(2) Within 4 months after the effective date
authority. PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS of this AD.
We are issuing this rulemaking under DIRECTIVES
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, (h) Repetitive Inspections
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 Repeat the inspections required by
General requirements.’’ Under that continues to read as follows: paragraph (g) of this AD thereafter at
section, Congress charges the FAA with Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. intervals not to exceed the applicable time
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in specified in paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of
§ 39.13 [Amended] this AD.
air commerce by prescribing regulations (1) For a THSA that, as of the date of the
for practices, methods, and procedures ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding most recent inspection required by paragraph
the Administrator finds necessary for the following new airworthiness (g) or (h) of this AD, has accumulated less
safety in air commerce. This regulation directive (AD): than 67,500 total flight hours since first
is within the scope of that authority 2015–15–10 Airbus: Amendment 39–18219. installation on an airplane: The repetitive
because it addresses an unsafe condition Docket No. FAA–2014–0748; Directorate inspection interval is 24 months.
that is likely to exist or develop on Identifier 2014–NM–013–AD. (2) For a THSA that, as of the date of the
products identified in this rulemaking most recent inspection required by paragraph
(a) Effective Date (g) or (h) of this AD, has accumulated 67,500
action. total flight hours or more since first
This AD becomes effective August 28,
Regulatory Findings 2015. installation on an airplane: The repetitive
inspection interval is 4 months.
We determined that this AD will not (b) Affected ADs
have federalism implications under None. (i) THSA Corrective Action
Executive Order 13132. This AD will If, during any inspection required by
(c) Applicability paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, any finding
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes, as described in the Accomplishment
certificated in any category, identified in Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–
the national government and the States, paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) of 27–1227, Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013,
or on the distribution of power and this AD, all manufacturer serial numbers. is found: At the applicable compliance time
responsibilities among the various (1) Model A318–111, –112, –121, and –122 (depending on the applicable findings)
levels of government. airplanes. specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of
For the reasons discussed above, I (2) Model A319–111, –112, –113, –114, Airbus Service Bulletin A320–27–1227,
certify that this AD: –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes. Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013, replace
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory (3) Model A320–211, –212, –214, –231, the THSA with a serviceable THSA, in
rmajette on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
action’’ under Executive Order 12866; –232, and –233 airplanes. accordance with the Accomplishment
(4) Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211, Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the 27–1227, Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013.
–212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes.
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures For the purposes of this AD, a serviceable
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); (d) Subject THSA is a THSA that has accumulated less
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Air Transport Association (ATA) of than 67,500 total flight hours since first
Alaska; and America Code 27, Flight Controls. installation on an airplane.
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![Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 142 / Friday, July 24, 2015 / Rules and Regulations 43931
(j) THSA Replacement Flight Standards District Office, as Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 12,
Before a THSA accumulates 67,500 total appropriate. If sending information directly 2015.
flight hours since first installation on an to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Jeffrey E. Duven,
airplane, or within 12 months after the Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Aircraft Certification Service.
later: Replace the THSA with a serviceable Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind [FR Doc. 2015–17956 Filed 7–23–15; 8:45 am]
THSA, in accordance with the Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149.
Service Bulletin A320–27–1227, Revision 01, Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-
dated October 7, 2013. Thereafter, before the AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using
accumulation of 67,500 total flight hours on DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
any THSA since first installation on an principal inspector, or lacking a principal
airplane, replace it with a serviceable THSA. Federal Aviation Administration
inspector, the manager of the local flight
(k) Replacement THSA: No Terminating standards district office/certificate holding 14 CFR Part 39
Action district office. The AMOC approval letter
Replacement of a THSA on an airplane, as must specifically reference this AD. [Docket No. FAA–2014–0011; Directorate
required by paragraph (i) or (j) of this AD, (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any Identifier 2013–NM–046–AD; Amendment
does not constitute terminating action for the requirement in this AD to obtain corrective 39–18194; AD 2015–13–07]
repetitive inspections required by paragraphs actions from a manufacturer, the action must RIN 2120–AA64
(g) and (h) of this AD for that airplane. After be accomplished using a method approved
THSA replacement: At the applicable by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
compliance time specified in paragraphs 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or Airplanes
(g)(1), (g)(2), (h)(1), and (h)(2) of this AD, do the EASA; or Airbus’s EASA DOA. If
the inspections required by paragraphs (g) approved by the DOA, the approval must AGENCY: Federal Aviation
and (h) of this AD. include the DOA-authorized signature. Administration (FAA), Department of
(l) Replacement THSA Equivalency Transportation (DOT).
(p) Related Information
A THSA that has been repaired in shop as ACTION: Final rule.
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
specified in United Technologies Corporation Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA
Aerospace Systems Component Maintenance SUMMARY: We are superseding
Airworthiness Directive 2014–0011R1, dated Airworthiness Directive (AD) 98–13–23
Manual 27–44–51 is considered equivalent to
January 17, 2014, for related information. for certain Airbus Model A300 B4–600,
having passed an inspection in accordance
with the Accomplishment Instructions of This MCAI may be found in the AD docket B4–600R, and F4–600R series airplanes,
Airbus Service Bulletin A320–27–1227, on the Internet at http:// and Model A300 C4–605R Variant F
Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013. www.regulations.gov/
airplanes (collectively called Model
Depending on the flight hours or flight cycles #!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0748-0002.
A300–600 series airplanes). AD 98–13–
accumulated by the repaired THSA: At the (2) Service information identified in this
AD that is not incorporated by reference is
23 required inspections to detect
applicable compliance time specified in
paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), (h)(1), and (h)(2) of available at the addresses specified in corrosion and cracking of the lower
this AD, do the inspections required by paragraphs (q)(3) and (q)(4) of this AD. horizontal stabilizer cutout longeron,
paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. the corner fitting, the skin strap, and the
(q) Material Incorporated by Reference outer skin; and repair, if necessary. This
(m) Parts Installation Limitation (1) The Director of the Federal Register new AD reduces the compliance times
As of the effective date of this AD, approved the incorporation by reference and repetitive intervals, and changes the
installation on an airplane of a THSA that (IBR) of the service information listed in this inspection procedures. This AD was
has accumulated 67,500 or more total flight paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR prompted by the determination that the
hours is allowed, provided that, prior to part 51.
installation, the THSA has been modified or
risk of cracking is higher than initially
(2) You must use this service information determined. We are issuing this AD to
inspected using a method approved by the as applicable to do the actions required by
Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, prevent cracking of the lower horizontal
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. stabilizer cutout longeron, the corner
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–27–1227, fitting, the skin strap, and the outer
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or
Airbus’s EASA Design Organization Revision 01, dated October 7, 2013.
skin, which could result in reduced
Approval (DOA). (ii) Reserved.
structural integrity of the horizontal-
(3) For service information identified in
(n) Credit for Previous Actions this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness
stabilizer cutout longeron.
This paragraph provides credit for Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice DATES: This AD becomes effective
inspections required by paragraphs (g), (h), Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; August 28, 2015.
and (l) of this AD, if those inspections were telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 The Director of the Federal Register
performed before the effective date of this AD 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ approved the incorporation by reference
using Airbus Service Bulletin A320–27–1227, airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com. of a certain publication listed in this AD
dated July 1, 2013, which is not incorporated (4) You may view this service information as of August 28, 2015.
by reference in this AD. at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, The Director of the Federal Register
(o) Other FAA AD Provisions 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For approved the incorporation by reference
information on the availability of this of a certain other publication listed in
The following provisions also apply to this
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. this AD as of July 30, 1998 (63 FR
AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (5) You may view this service information 34576).
rmajette on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
(AMOCs): The Manager, International that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD
Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
Directorate, FAA, has the authority to Administration (NARA). For information on docket on the Internet at http://
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested the availability of this material at NARA, call www.regulations.gov/
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. 202–741–6030, or go to: http:// #!docketDetail;D=FAA-2014-0011; or in
In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- person at the Docket Management
request to your principal inspector or local locations.html. Facility, U.S. Department of
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Document Created: 2018-02-23 09:25:26
Document Modified: 2018-02-23 09:25:26
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Rules and Regulations | |
| Action | Final rule. | |
| Dates | This AD becomes effective August 28, 2015. | |
| Contact | Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. | |
| FR Citation | 80 FR 43928 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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